Vesta Teleradiology

How to Pick the Best Teleradiology Company

As the demand for healthcare services continues to surge and the shortage of healthcare workers persists, particularly in specialized fields, such as radiology, hospitals and healthcare centers find themselves facing the challenge of ensuring timely and accurate interpretations of medical imaging studies. The critical role of radiologists in diagnosing illnesses and guiding treatment decisions underscores the urgency of addressing this shortage. In response, many institutions are turning to teleradiology companies to bridge the gap and provide remote interpretation services. However, selecting the right teleradiology company is paramount to ensure high-quality patient care and seamless integration into existing workflows. In this discussion, we will explore the criteria for choosing a reputable teleradiology company, considering factors such as expertise, technology infrastructure, turnaround time, and adherence to regulatory standards. By making informed decisions in this regard, healthcare facilities can optimize their radiology services and meet the needs of patients efficiently.

remote radiology company — Rad tech and radiologist

Checklist for Choosing a Teleradiology Partner

Before selecting a teleradiology company, healthcare providers should consider several key factors to ensure they choose a partner that meets their needs and maintains high standards of service. Here are some important considerations:

Quality and Expertise: Assess the qualifications and experience of the radiologists employed by the teleradiology company. Look for board-certified radiologists with expertise in relevant subspecialties. A recent survey of 2,749 radiologists from 108 countries reveals that while they read across almost five subspecialties daily, many lack confidence in certain areas. About 40% accept studies across all specialties, but less than half feel “very confident” in their current subspecialty, so it is vital to ensure the radiologists you work with have expertise in what you require.
Technology and Infrastructure: Evaluate the teleradiology company’s technology infrastructure, including the software used for image transmission and reporting. Compatibility with existing systems and the ability to securely transmit images while maintaining patient privacy are crucial considerations.
Turnaround Time: Timeliness is critical in radiology reporting. Consider the teleradiology company’s turnaround time for providing interpretations. Ideally, they should offer rapid reporting to facilitate prompt patient care and treatment decisions.
24/7 Availability: Healthcare facilities may require radiology services round-the-clock. Ensure that the teleradiology company offers 24/7 coverage (like at Vesta Teleradiology) to accommodate emergencies and provide continuous support.
Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication between the teleradiology company and the healthcare facility is essential. Evaluate the company’s communication protocols, including how they handle urgent findings and facilitate collaboration between radiologists and onsite clinicians.
Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the teleradiology company complies with all relevant regulatory standards, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations for patient data protection. They should also adhere to industry standards for image quality and reporting accuracy.
Scalability and Flexibility: Consider the scalability of the teleradiology service to accommodate fluctuations in imaging volumes. Additionally, assess their flexibility in tailoring services to meet the specific needs of your healthcare facility.
Cost and Value: While cost is a factor, prioritize value over price alone. Evaluate the overall value proposition of the teleradiology company, considering factors such as quality, reliability, and the ability to improve patient outcomes.

By thoroughly evaluating these factors and conducting due diligence, healthcare providers can make an informed decision when choosing a teleradiology company, ultimately enhancing the quality and efficiency of radiology services within their organization.

Partnering with a Top US Teleradiology Company—Vesta

Vesta serves as your dependable ally in radiology, extending support to various subspecialties—whether you’re a busy urban hospital or a private practice. We ensure swift processing for both urgent and routine studies. Recognizing the value of your staff’s time and well-being, our teleradiology services enable them to maintain a healthier work-life balance by covering shifts during nights, weekends, and holidays. We can also accommodate any volumes so please reach out to us to learn more.

Sources:

hcinnovationgroup.com
Radiologybusiness.com
openai.com

A Tale of Two Studies: Are Doctors Fulfilling too Many Imaging Requests?

A recent qualitative study aimed to investigate the factors influencing general practitioners’ (GPs) decisions to fulfill patient requests for imaging studies during clinical consultations. Ten GPs from private medical centers in Northwest Sydney were interviewed, and their perspectives were analyzed through content analysis. On the other side of the spectrum, we explore an American study that reveals the importance of encouraging more people to undergo screenings.

Patient Imaging Requests

The study revealed six key themes that emerged from the interviews regarding GPs fulfilling patient imaging requests:

Patient Expectations: Patients’ desires and expectations played a significant role in GPs’ decisions to fulfill imaging requests. Some patients expected certain tests due to their health concerns or beliefs.

‘Therapeutic Scans’: GPs recognized that some patients viewed imaging scans as a form of reassurance or therapeutic action. This influenced GPs to fulfill requests to alleviate patient anxiety.

“I find X-rays have become a therapeutic requirement, [and] that their [patients’] problem often dissipates once the request is given. (Female, 40)”

‘Impressive Labels’: The use of serious-sounding terms in imaging reports contributed to patients’ perception of the severity of their condition. This, in turn, led to increased requests for such scans.

Entitlement: Some patients exhibited an attitude of entitlement, expecting imaging scans without sufficient medical justification. GPs were more likely to decline such requests, especially during initial visits.

Defensive Medicine: GPs expressed concerns about potential legal repercussions if they refused imaging requests. Fear of litigation influenced GPs to fulfill requests to avoid legal issues.

‘New Patients’: GPs were cautious about fulfilling imaging requests from new patients, as they needed time to establish trust and assess the necessity of the requested scans.

The study concluded that GPs faced challenges in balancing their role as gatekeepers of imaging with patient expectations. Clear guidelines, patient education, and GP training were suggested as potential strategies to manage patient expectations and provide appropriate care. The study sheds light on the complexities of patient-GP interactions regarding imaging requests and highlights the need for evidence-based strategies to navigate these challenges. The study was conducted within the Australian Medicare system, where medical imaging is relatively accessible and affordable, and the findings contribute to understanding the dynamics of patient-GP interactions in this context.

Cancer Screenings Saves Millions of Years of Life

Meanwhile an American study conducted by teams from the University of Chicago, University of Michigan, and study sponsor Grail LLC estimates that Americans have gained an additional 12 million years of life due to preventive cancer screenings over the past 25 years, leading to an economic impact of around $6.5 trillion. These screenings, targeting early signs of breast, colon, cervical, and lung cancers among high-risk adults, emphasize the importance of encouraging more individuals to undergo recommended cancer checks and exploring novel screening methods. The study suggests that if all eligible individuals received current screening for these cancers, it could save an extra 3.3 million life-years and add $1.7 trillion in economic impact.

The research utilized a mathematical model to assess the impact of cancer screenings endorsed by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This federally authorized panel evaluates evidence for preventive medical services and provides recommendations using letter grades. Since 2010, screenings with “A” or “B” grades have been covered by most insurances without patient costs under the Affordable Care Act.

Although screenings for breast, colorectal, cervical, and lung cancers have saved millions of life-years, their full potential remains untapped. The majority of life-years saved and economic impact come from cervical cancer screening due to its early and consistent screening intervals for individuals aged 18-65. However, the study acknowledges that the availability of the HPV vaccine since 2006 could affect the future value of cervical cancer screening.

While there are validated screening tests lacking for many cancer types, decreased death rates from cancers with available screenings have contributed to the overall reduction in U.S. cancer deaths. To establish more broadly validated cancer screenings, further research is needed, potentially evaluated by the USPSTF. Novel screening tools like blood tests for multiple cancer types are in development, but AI-based tests have yet to undergo review by relevant bodies for efficacy and recommendations.

Sources:
onlinelibrary.wiley.com
michiganmedicine.org
Openai.com

Mammography: Is AI Better than Humans?

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has made remarkable strides in revolutionizing the landscape of the medical field, offering unprecedented opportunities for enhanced patient care, diagnosis, and treatment. From accelerating the analysis of medical imagery to predicting disease outcomes with unparalleled accuracy, AI-powered technologies have swiftly established themselves as indispensable tools for healthcare professionals. Beyond diagnostics, AI has played a pivotal role in drug discovery, streamlining clinical trials, and personalizing patient interventions. As AI continues to evolve, its potential to transform healthcare systems globally is becoming increasingly evident, promising not only improved medical outcomes but also cost-effective solutions and optimized resource allocation. The fusion of AI’s computational prowess with medical expertise heralds a new era of medical advancements that hold the potential to alleviate the burden on healthcare systems, save lives, and redefine the standards of patient well-being.

In the United States alone, it is estimated that around 40 million mammograms were performed each year. Mammograms are crucial as they are the primary method for early detection of breast cancer, enabling timely intervention and improving survival rates. By detecting small abnormalities and tumors that may not be palpable, mammograms help identify potential breast cancer cases in their earliest stages, allowing for more effective and less invasive treatment options.

Radiologists often find themselves overwhelmed due to the increasing volume of medical images requiring analysis, coupled with a shortage of radiology specialists. The demand for accurate and timely diagnoses, especially in fields like mammography, can lead to extended work hours and heightened stress levels among radiologists. Introducing AI technologies can alleviate this burden by assisting in image analysis, enabling radiologists to focus on complex cases and ensuring more efficient patient care.

How AI Helps in Mammography

A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology suggests that artificial intelligence (AI) may outperform trained doctors in detecting breast cancer from mammogram images. Mammograms face challenges due to factors like breast density, leading to missed cancer cases. The study analyzed 80,000 mammograms from Swedish women, finding that AI-assisted readings detected 20% more cancers compared to human radiologists. While not a standalone solution, AI could alleviate doctors’ workloads, enhancing accuracy without increasing false negatives. Despite FDA-approved AI technologies, integration with conventional methods is likely, aiding radiologists in managing a growing workload. The balance between AI and human expertise remains essential, ensuring optimal patient care and early cancer detection.

Healthcare experts, including the NHS and the Royal College of Radiologists, acknowledge AI’s promise in enhancing efficiency, decision-making, and prioritizing critical cases.

AI applied to diagnostic imaging holds the potential to significantly enhance the level of patient care. We eagerly anticipate further progress in this field. However, we maintain the viewpoint that presently, no machine can effectively substitute for the expertise of a skilled human observer for interpretations. At Vesta, we offer the services of radiologists who are US Board Certified, dedicated to delivering precise preliminary and final analyses. Discover how we can bolster your radiology department by reaching out to us today.

Sources:

Criver.com
health.com
theguardian.com
openai.com

Healthcare Burnout: Update for 2023

Burnout in the medical setting refers to a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion experienced by healthcare professionals. It arises from chronic and excessive stress caused by demanding work environments, long hours, high patient loads, and the emotional toll of dealing with patient suffering. Symptoms of burnout include feelings of cynicism, detachment from work, reduced sense of accomplishment, and a decline in professional performance. Burnout not only impacts the well-being of medical practitioners but can also compromise patient care and safety. It also impacts staffing at all levels in healthcare, from nurses to executives.

What’s Going on Now?

Healthcare employees nationwide have initiated strikes in their efforts to secure better pay and improved staffing conditions in their employment agreements. Additionally, resident physicians are becoming increasingly engaged in labor organizing.

burnt out — A doctor experiences burnout

According to experts, these labor trends will present ongoing challenges to health systems as facilities strive to return to pre-pandemic operations while trying to control the labor costs that escalated last year. The sector is expected to face persistent staffing shortages, particularly among nurses, due to widespread burnout and increased turnover. As a result, healthcare facilities continue to rely on expensive contract labor to fill the gaps in their workforce, even as the rates of severe COVID-19 hospitalizations decline.

Burnout in Radiologists

The “Medscape Physician Burnout & Depression Report 2023: ‘I Cry and No One Cares'” reported that 54 percent of radiologists surveyed felt burned out. Further, just 61% of radiologists said they’re happy or very happy away from work.

Recent data published in the European Journal of Radiology presents the experiences of breast radiologists with burnout during various stages of the COVID pandemic. Surprisingly, the study reveals that, at the height of COVID, many radiologists reported improvements in five out of six common stressors, such as work pace, work-life balance, caregiving responsibilities, and financial strain. However, this relief was short-lived, as patient capacity increased again, leading to a surge in workload, backlogs of studies, and a slight increase in burnout levels compared to before the pandemic.

Addressing Staffing Shortages and Burnout

Addressing burnout is crucial to maintain a healthy healthcare workforce and ensure the delivery of high-quality medical services. Strategies like promoting work-life balance, providing support and resources for stress management, and fostering a positive and supportive work culture are essential to mitigate and prevent burnout in the medical field.

Vesta Teleradiology is your reliable solution for all your healthcare facility’s radiology requirements, whether you require full-time support or coverage during nights and weekends. With over 16 years of dedicated service to diagnostic imaging centers, physician’s offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, we are here to assist you. Get in touch with us today for a quick quote at 1-877-55-VESTA.

teleradiology-service — Vesta is a highly rated teleradiology service provider.

Sources:

Healthcaredive.com
Radiologybusiness.com
Beckershospitalreview.com
Healthimaging.com
Openai.com

Why ERs Can See an Influx of Patients this Summer

Emergency rooms (ERs) play a critical and indispensable role in the healthcare system, serving as the front line of medical care for individuals experiencing urgent and life-threatening situations. These bustling hubs of medical expertise and resources are designed to provide immediate and comprehensive care to patients who require immediate attention, regardless of their condition or ability to pay. Emergency rooms act as the safety net for communities, offering round-the-clock access to highly trained healthcare professionals, advanced diagnostic tools, and life-saving interventions. From trauma cases and acute illnesses to critical injuries and emergencies, emergency rooms serve as the gateway to timely and potentially life-saving medical care, ensuring that patients receive the immediate attention they need in their most vulnerable moments.

During the summer months in the United States, emergency rooms tend to see an increase in patient visits due to various reasons. Pew Research states that close to 45,000 people visit U.S. hospital emergency rooms for treatment of injuries each day on July 4 and 5 which are the highest daily numbers in the entire year.

Some common reasons people visit emergency rooms during the summer include:

Heat-Related Illnesses: The hot weather can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Symptoms may include dehydration, dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and altered mental status, which may require immediate medical attention.

Trauma from Outdoor Activities: Outdoor recreational activities like hiking, camping, and rock climbing can lead to injuries such as fractures, sprains, cuts, and wounds. Emergency care may be necessary for evaluation, wound management, and potential surgical interventions. This means an increase in imaging procedures like x-rays.

er visits during summertime — Water-related incidents can be more prevalent during summer

Accidents and Injuries: Summer activities and outdoor sports can result in an uptick in accidents and injuries. This includes injuries from water-related activities, such as swimming accidents, diving accidents, near-drownings, and boating accidents, as well as bicycle accidents, falls, and recreational sports injuries.

Allergic Reactions: Summertime brings increased exposure to allergens like pollen, insect bites, and stings. Some individuals may experience severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, requiring emergency medical care.

Respiratory Issues: People with respiratory conditions, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may experience exacerbations during the summer due to factors like poor air quality, increased pollen, and higher levels of pollution. These exacerbations can lead to respiratory distress and necessitate emergency care.

Outdoor and Recreational Injuries: With warmer weather, people engage in various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, and team sports. These activities can result in injuries such as fractures, sprains, strains, dislocations, and head injuries.

Foodborne Illnesses: Barbecues, picnics, and outdoor gatherings increase the risk of foodborne illnesses due to improper food handling and storage. Severe cases of food poisoning can lead to dehydration and require medical evaluation and treatment.

Sunburn and Sun-Related Injuries: Prolonged sun exposure without proper protection can result in sunburn, sun poisoning, and related skin injuries. Severe sunburns may require medical attention to manage pain, prevent infection, and address complications.

Why Staffing is Important

Adequate healthcare staffing is of paramount importance for emergency rooms as it directly impacts the quality and timeliness of care provided to patients in critical situations. Emergency rooms must be adequately staffed with physicians, nurses, and support staff who possess the necessary skills and expertise to handle a wide range of emergencies. The unpredictable nature of emergency room cases, the potential for multiple simultaneous emergencies, and the need for rapid decision-making necessitate a sufficient number of healthcare professionals to ensure efficient triage, timely assessments, and appropriate interventions. With adequate staffing, emergency rooms can effectively manage patient flow, reduce wait times, provide continuous monitoring, and deliver the highest standard of care, ultimately maximizing patient outcomes and saving lives.

Vesta Fills in for Your Radiologists

Whether you have a shortage of radiologists due to a hiring shortage or simply your staff is unavailable nights and weekends, Vesta is here for you. Hospitals and ERs can’t always predict with complete accuracy future patient volume which is where Vesta can help you with the unexpected. Our US Board Certified radiologists can work on-site or remotely for your preliminary and final interpretations.

Sources:

Pewresearch.org
MedicalEconomics.com
OpenAI.com
blog.uvahealth.com

The Role of a Pediatric Radiologist

In 2011, a large study examined the use of x-rays and other radiation imaging on children—they estimated that the average child would get more than seven radiation scans by the age of 18. No doubt, then, that the role of a pediatric radiologist is important in accurately diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions in children. Their specialized knowledge, expertise in radiation safety, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals contribute to the well-being and optimal care of pediatric patients. It’s estimated that only 3% of all radiologists in the US are pediatric radiologists, making this a small subspeciality. In this article, we will review the role and responsibilities of a pediatric radiologist.

A pediatric radiologist is a specialized medical doctor who focuses on using medical imaging techniques to diagnose and treat diseases and conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. They have expertise in interpreting and analyzing imaging studies specifically related to pediatric patients.

The role of a pediatric radiologist involves the following:

Interpreting Imaging Studies: Pediatric radiologists review and interpret various imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and nuclear medicine scans. They analyze the images to identify abnormalities or signs of disease. If you choose to work with Vesta Teleradiology, we have US board certified radiologists that handle subspecialty preliminary and final interpretations in pediatric imaging.

Diagnosing Diseases and Conditions: By studying the imaging results, pediatric radiologists can diagnose a wide range of diseases and conditions that affect children. This can include congenital anomalies, infections, tumors, fractures, organ abnormalities, and other medical conditions.

Minimizing Radiation Exposure: Pediatric radiologists are particularly mindful of the potential risks associated with radiation exposure in children. They employ techniques and protocols that minimize the amount of radiation used during imaging procedures, ensuring the safety of young patients while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic information. For example, when appropriate, pediatric radiologists may use lead shields or aprons to protect sensitive areas of a child’s body that are not being imaged. This helps minimize unnecessary radiation exposure to healthy tissues. They also undergo specialized training in pediatric radiology, which includes radiation safety and dose optimization techniques.

Guiding Treatment Decisions: Pediatric radiologists collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, surgeons, and oncologists, to help guide treatment decisions. The imaging findings they provide play a crucial role in determining the most appropriate course of treatment.

Performing Image-Guided Procedures: In addition to interpreting images, pediatric radiologists may also perform image-guided procedures. These procedures can include biopsies, drainages, and minimally invasive interventions. They use imaging technology to guide their instruments and ensure precise placement.

Collaboration and Consultation: Pediatric radiologists work closely with other healthcare professionals, including referring physicians, to discuss imaging findings, provide recommendations, and answer any questions. They may also consult with pediatric subspecialists to provide further expertise in specific areas of pediatric radiology.

Overall, the role of a pediatric radiologist is vital in the accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of medical conditions affecting children. Their specialized knowledge and skills in pediatric imaging contribute to the well-being and treatment outcomes of young patients.

Sources:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16357371/

OpenAi.com

https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/average-child-may-get-7-radiation-scans-by-age-18/

How Has COVID Affected Hospitals Financially?

It’s a staggering statistic. Healthcare company bankruptcies were up 84% in 2022 as compared to 2021. Things are getting so severe that in California, there are legislative proposals for offering emergency loans for hospitals facing closure or that are trying to reopen. Why is this happening?

COVID’s Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on hospitals financially. Here are some of the ways hospitals have been affected:

Increased expenses: Hospitals faced increased expenses due to the surge in COVID-19 cases. These expenses include the cost of personal protective equipment (PPE), additional staffing needs, testing supplies, ventilators, and other medical equipment required to treat COVID-19 patients. Hospitals also had to invest in facility modifications and create dedicated COVID-19 units or wards.

Canceled or postponed elective procedures: To free up resources and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, many hospitals had to cancel or postpone elective surgeries and procedures. These procedures often contribute a significant portion of a hospital’s revenue, and their suspension led to financial losses.

Reduction in outpatient visits: Many people postponed or avoided non-emergency medical visits and procedures due to concerns about COVID-19 exposure. As a result, hospitals experienced a decline in outpatient visits, diagnostic tests, and routine care. Outpatient services are an essential revenue source for hospitals, and the decrease in patient volumes had a negative financial impact.

Decline in emergency department visits: While emergency departments experienced a surge in COVID-19 cases, they also saw a decline in visits for non-COVID-19 emergencies. Fear of exposure to the virus, stay-at-home orders, and limited access to transportation may have contributed to this decline. Since emergency department visits often generate revenue for hospitals, the decrease in non-COVID-19 cases had financial implications.

Unequal distribution of funding: While governments and healthcare systems provided financial relief and support to hospitals during the pandemic, the distribution of funds varied. Some hospitals, particularly those in hard-hit areas or with a high percentage of COVID-19 patients, received additional funding. However, smaller or rural hospitals with fewer COVID-19 cases may have faced financial challenges due to reduced patient volumes and inadequate financial support.

It’s important to note that the specific financial impact can vary among hospitals based on factors such as their location, patient demographics, size, and pre-pandemic financial health. These factors can influence the severity of the financial challenges faced by hospitals during the COVID-19 crisis.

Partnering with Vesta Teleradiology Group to Reduce Costs

Vesta Teleradiology understands that financial costs can be a burden, so that’s why they are always on the lookout to bring the latest technologies to healthcare facilities to help improve efficiency and quality while reducing costs. Vesta doesn’t believe you have to sacrifice quality for cost. Whether you operate a large hospital, urgent care center, or private practice, we are here to help fully or in part, for all your radiology interpretation needs, including subspecialties.

Sources:

OpenAi.com

https://www.healthcaredive.com/news/healthcare-company-bankruptcies-2022-hospitals-senior-care-pharma/640504/

https://calmatters.org/health/2023/04/hospital-closures-california/

Practice Management: How to Soothe Patient Concerns over Diagnostic Imaging

Being told that you need diagnostic imaging can be scary. Healthcare professionals deal with diagnostic imaging every day, so they may become immune to the concerns of patients.

Still, amidst patients’ fear of diagnostic imaging, healthcare professionals can set their minds at ease.

The main thing to remember is to simply treat your patients like humans. Slow down, treat them with kindness, and really listen to their concerns. Doing these simple things can go a long way in setting your patients’ minds at ease.

What Concerns Do Patients Have About Diagnostic Imaging?

One of the most common concerns amongst patients is the claustrophobia caused by MRI machines. Dealing with the tight space of an MRI machine can be very stressful for patients dealing with claustrophobia and anxiety.

Regarding X-rays, patients are often concerned about their radiation exposure. They fear that the imaging may put them at increased risk for cancer.

Treat Your Patient Like a Person

One of the most common complaints from patients is that they don’t feel like the person working with them is treating them with care and understanding.

talking to your patients — Address the patients concerns

Smile and say hello when you first enter the room. Something as small as a smile can instantly put a person’s mind at ease, especially in a clinical setting that is scary for many patients.

Always refer to the patient by their name. Never refer to them as “the patient” while they are in earshot. Doing so sounds cold, while using their name makes the interaction feel more personal.

Maintain eye contact with your patient. Don’t look at their chart so much that you forget to make them feel like they’re being heard. Eye contact can make them less anxious, especially if they’ve been waiting a long time or have specific fears.

Make sure you sit — standing over a seated patient can be intimidating.

Listen & Understand

Health Management emphasizes how important it is to listen to your patient and ask questions. Let them explain what is going on before you begin to speak. Don’t interrupt them. If they have something to add while you’re talking, allow them to interject and listen to what they say.

Giving your patient space to speak can clarify any confusion on both parts.

After they have finished, reiterate what they’ve said to ensure you understand their concerns. Doing so shows the patient that you are interested in helping them and have respect for their situation. It also ensures that both the patient and healthcare provider are on the same page with treatment going forward.

Also, remember to slow down. Many patients feel that healthcare providers are in a rush, that they’re wasting their time, and that the provider would rather be elsewhere. Patients deserve to feel that their time is valued. Slowing down also helps patients to feel like they are heard and understood.

Watch Your Tone

Patients often come to healthcare providers with sensitive information that can make them feel vulnerable. Health Management encourages professionals to speak to patients with a warm, calm tone of voice. It can do a lot to set their mind at ease. Speaking more slowly can do the same.

Educate Your Patients

Lawrence T. Dauer et al. say professionals should educate their patients. They should know exactly what’s happening during the imaging and what effects the imaging may have on their bodies.

For example, many patients fear how much radiation they’re getting. Explain that they are receiving very little radiation exposure.

Don’t lie to them. Professionals know that repeated exposure, a person’s age, and other factors may increase risk. Patients deserve to know that, but you can set their minds at ease by explaining their risks.

Patients should always have informed consent. They should know precisely what they’re going into and be okay with it. Consent is not just about getting the patient to sign a form. It ensures they are adequately educated about their procedure and entirely on board.

Be Clear

As a healthcare professional, you know a lot of medical and technical jargon that the patient likely does not. Speak straightforwardly, using familiar words. It is crucial that the patient understands what is going on with their treatment.

At the same time, Health Management warns you to be careful not to come across as patronizing. Although patients may not know medical jargon, it doesn’t mean they’re stupid.

Reducing MRI Claustrophobia Concerns

The University of Virginia says the main reason patients are fearful of MRI machines is because they lack understanding of them. Many professionals can ease patients’ minds by informing them that MRI machines are well-lit and open at both ends. They are not closed off and dark, as many patients fear.

patient anxiety — Understand some people may have claustrophobia

Professionals can teach their patients easy breathing and meditation techniques to help keep them calm during the procedure. Another option is to tell them to count to keep their minds busy or to go to their “happy place.”

Provide them with a towel or washcloth they can drape over their eyes so they can’t see what’s going on.

Provide patients with headphones and allow them to listen to their music of choice.

Talk to your patients — about anything — get their minds off the procedure.

Conclusion

Diagnostic imaging can be scary for patients, especially those dealing with anxiety. Medical professionals are critical in setting a patient’s mind at ease, and it’s not hard to do.

Slow down, treat your patients with kindness and respect, and ensure they are properly informed. These simple things can help calm your patients and help you build a lasting professional relationship.

Women in Imaging: Historical and Contemporary Figures Advancing Medicine

March is a month set aside to celebrate women. During this month, Women’s History month, people are encouraged to learn about and celebrate the strong women in their lives and throughout history. But women’s history is wide reaching and all encompassing. There are thousands of women in hundreds of different industries that have made lasting impacts.

One of those industries is the medical industry. Women have left their mark everywhere in medicine and have helped develop new ideas, new medicines and treatments, and new pieces of technology. Let’s take a look at pillars in medical imaging.

History of Medical Imaging

But first, what exactly is medical imaging? This section of the medical industry includes different technologies that help medical professionals view various internal body systems within the human body. Medical imaging is used to find, diagnose, monitor, and even treat different medical conditions or injury.

Each piece of technology encompassed in medical imaging focuses on a different area or system of the body. Take x-rays for example. X-rays are used to view the skeletal system – the bones – of the body. X-rays are used to identify different issues with a patient’s bones and joints. Other types of medical imaging includes ultrasounds, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), and even mammography.

Medical imaging, as a practice, has been around since the last 19th century. It began with the development of x-rays. The first x-ray was taken in 1895, and since then the industry has grown as new pieces of technology have been developed. And women have played a pivotal role in this development.

Women in Medical Imaging

There have been innumerable women who have had a hand in the development and advancement of medical imaging. Of those, there are a few that we’d like to highlight.

Marie Curie

The first woman of medical imaging was a Polish scientist named Marie Curie. While this name is often familiar to many people, it’s familiar because of her discovery of radium. Radium is a naturally occurring radioactive element that was instrumental to the development of medical imaging.

Without Marie Curie’s discoveries, medical imaging may not exist, or would at least have been seriously delayed. Medical imaging uses radiation to see within the human body, so Marie Curie and her developments were imperative.

Florence Ada Stoney

Florence Ada Stoney was a radiologist during World War I. While she may not have created a new technology or radiology treatment, she was the lynchpin of women’s participation in medical imaging and radiology.

Stoney was not allowed to serve in the x-ray department of a London hospital during the war effort because she was a woman. Rather than admit defeat, Stoney created a volunteer unit comprised entirely of women. In 1915, Stoney was hired as the head of the Fulham Military Hospital’s x-ray department – the first time a woman headed such a department.

Muyinatu Bell

Muyinatu Bell is a modern counterpart of the forerunners of medical imaging. In the mid-2010s, Bell developed a new ultrasound technique that produces higher-quality images and is most effective for use in obese patients.

Without these women, modern medical imaging wouldn’t be where it is today. But this list is not exhaustive. There are countless more women who have found their place in medical imaging and left their mark.

While the number of women actively working in medical imaging is rarely higher 30%, no matter what area or discipline, they are still making serious gains. Women are a small portion of the medical imaging world, but they are mighty.

Social Media Tips to Help Healthcare Facilities Connect with Patients

Social media is an ever-changing landscape, but it remains one of the best ways for healthcare facilities to reach and engage with current and potential patients. If you’re a healthcare facility looking to get started on social media, here are a few tips to help.

Listen First, Talk Later

Before creating content or engaging with people on social media, listening and observing what’s already happening in your industry is essential. Read up on trending topics, follow influencers, and join conversations relevant to your healthcare facility—this will give you a better understanding of what kinds of content resonates with your target audience.

Once you understand the conversation, you can create content or join existing discussions.

social media for healthcare — How are you connecting with patients online?

Spread Awareness of Services

Content doesn’t have to be hard to produce. Does your facility offer mammograms or other diagnostic imaging services? What type of special treatments do you offer patients? Let it be known through your posts! Whether you make a short informative Instagram Reel or a simple graphic, it’s ever crucial to make sure people know what you offer.

Build Relationships

Social media is all about building relationships, so pay attention to how you interact with others online.

Respond thoughtfully to comments and questions from followers; if someone has taken the time to reach out to you via social media, they deserve a well-crafted response that shows them that their voice matters. When responding directly to a patient’s question or comment, always use a professional tone and be sure not to disclose private information.

The beginning response to a patient with a question about diabetes might be:

“ Managing diabetes is no easy task, and if you’re a diabetes patient, it can be challenging to get your condition under control.”

Or:

“I empathize with the daily struggles you must endure keeping diabetes at bay. The good news is that there are ways to help make this easier for you.”

Be Transparent

Social media should be an opportunity for transparency between yourself and your followers.

health care social media tips — Show the faces behind your healthcare team

Share behind-the-scenes photos and videos from your day-to-day operations; this helps build trust by showing that real people work hard at your facility daily. It also allows patients who may not have visited before to get familiarized with the space beforehand, making them more comfortable when they arrive for their appointment or procedure.

Monitor Your Reputation

As a healthcare facility on social media, you must monitor what’s being said about you online – positive and negative.

Be sure to set up alerts for your company name as well as any hashtags associated with it to allow you to keep tabs on mentions of your brand.

If anything negative is posted about you online (such as negative reviews), you can address it quickly before the situation escalates. When a person posts a positive comment, be sure you “like” them, or comment back, so your followers know you respected their opinion.

A respectful response to a negative review about a rude employee at a hospital might be:

“At our hospital, all our staff members strive to ensure the highest level of quality care and customer satisfaction possible. Unfortunately, it’s not always achieved as intended due to human error and environmental stressors.”

“We recognize that patient care starts with respectful communication and interactions between patients and healthcare providers. To improve communication throughout the institution, we are investing in additional staffing resources so that nurses and other team members feel better supported when high volumes present themselves on certain days or times during their shifts.”

Measure Results

Lastly, measure the results of your social media efforts using analytics tools.

Using these tools will allow you to track how many people are visiting your page (and how often), see where they came from (e.g., organic search vs. referral traffic), and track engagement over time (likes/comments/shares). This information will help inform future decisions about what kind of content works best for engaging with patients online.

By measuring results regularly, you can continually refine and improve your strategy over time, so it eventually becomes second nature.

Social media can provide significant benefits for healthcare facilities looking to connect more deeply with current & potential patients—but only if done correctly.

Following these tips will ensure your presence on social media is practical & compliant with relevant regulations & guidelines set forth by governing bodies.

Take some time today & begin implementing these tips into practice right away. Your healthcare facility’s social pages will become vibrant hubs of conversation & connect with the community.

Good luck & happy posting!